Hay

SA2

Rest of NSW / Lower Murray

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Data Sources ABSValuer GeneralRental BoardACARA Newest Aug 2026 · Refreshed ABS QuickStats 109021177 How we calculate this
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Statistical Area (SA2) Boundary Analysis

This analysis uses ABS Statistical Areas Level 2 (SA2) boundaries, which can materially differ from Suburbs and Localities (SAL) even when sharing similar names.

SA2 boundaries are defined by the Australian Bureau of Statistics and are designed to represent communities for statistical reporting (e.g., census and ERP).

Suburbs and Localities (SAL) represent commonly-used suburb/locality names (postal-style areas) and may use different geographic boundaries. For comprehensive analysis, consider reviewing both boundary types if available.

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Sales ActivityProperty Sales Trends in Hay

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The median house price in Hay is $324k, with units at $204k. House values have moved 9.1% a year compounded over five years.

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DemographicsPopulation Growth in Hay

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Hay has an estimated 2,926 residents, up from 2,897 at the 2021 Census — a change of 29 people, or 1.0%. Fewer than ten people live on each square kilometre, across a boundary that takes in surrounding rural land. Population is estimated from ABS Estimated Resident Population releases and GNAF address data, re-based from the 2021 Census and updated annually.

Detail

According to AreaSearch's projections, the population of Hay is approximately 2,926 as of May 2026. This indicates an addition of 29 individuals (1.0%) relative to the 2021 Census, which registered 2,897 residents. The calculation is based on the June 2025 ABS estimated resident population of 2,926 combined with 41 validated new addresses registered after the Census. This population level corresponds to a density of 0.20 persons per square kilometer, indicating a spacious living environment. Population increases were mostly driven by overseas migration, which accounted for roughly 79.4% of total population increases recently.

AreaSearch incorporates projections from the ABS and Geoscience Australia for every SA2 region, published in 2024 using 2022 as the base year. For SA2 regions lacking this coverage, projections from the NSW State Government released in 2022 with a 2021 base year are utilized. Growth projections by age category from these data sets are applied to all locations for the period 2032 to 2041. Based on these anticipated demographic trends, the total population is projected to shrink over this timeframe, decreasing by 285 individuals by 2041. Conversely, expansion is projected in specific age brackets, particularly the 75 to 84 age cohort, which is expected to grow by 56 people.

Frequently Asked Questions - Population

What is the latest population estimate for the Hay SA2?
Total population for the Hay SA2 was estimated to be approximately 2,926 as at May 26. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 2,926 from the ABS up to June 2025.
How has the population in the Hay SA2 changed since 2021?
The hay sa2 has added approximately 29 people and shown a 1.00% increase from the 2,897 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
What is the population density in the Hay SA2?
The population density in the Hay SA2 is estimated at 0 persons per square kilometer based on the latest population estimate.
How much has the population grown over the past 10 years in the Hay SA2?
Over the past 10 years, the population in the Hay SA2 has shown a compound annual growth rate of -0.3% per annum.
What are the main drivers of population growth in the Hay SA2?
Population growth in the Hay SA2 is driven by: Overseas migration (79.4%), Natural increase (20.6%), Interstate migration (0.0%). The primary driver is Overseas migration, contributing 79.4% of overall population gains.

Residential SupplyHousing Development & Building Approvals in Hay

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23 new dwellings have been approved in Hay over the past five years, an average of 4 a year. That is 1.6 approvals per 1,000 residents. Approvals are currently running at an annualised 5, broadly in line with that longer-run average. Figures come from ABS building approvals aggregated to this SA2 boundary and are updated monthly as the ABS releases them.

Detail

Hay averages approximately 4 building approvals for dwellings each year, with 23 residential projects approved over the last 5 financial years (from FY-21 to FY-25) and 5 during FY-26 so far. With an average of only 0.1 new residents per year arriving per new home over the last 5 financial years (from FY-21 to FY-25), the supply of housing matches or exceeds local demand, providing prospective buyers with diverse options and enabling growth capacity beyond current projections, with new residences constructed at an average cost of $365,000. Additionally, commercial development approvals total $19.1 million for this financial year, representing a moderate volume of commercial activity.

Compared to the Rest of NSW, Hay displays significantly lower levels of construction activity (63.0% below the regional average per capita). This limited supply of new dwellings generally supports demand and values for existing properties, even though construction activity has risen recently. This construction volume is also below the national average, reflecting the established status of the area and potentially indicating local planning constraints. Furthermore, recent building activity has consisted entirely of single-family detached houses, preserving the traditional low-density profile of the community and offering family-oriented residences. The average of 484 people per dwelling approval reflects a slow-paced, low-volume construction environment. Faced with static or decreasing population projections, Hay could see reduced pressure on housing, creating advantageous purchasing conditions for home buyers.

Frequently Asked Questions - Development

How many dwelling approvals have occurred in the Hay SA2 recently?
Dwelling approval activity in the the Hay SA2 area has seen 12 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The Hay SA2's current population of 2,926 has been supported by 4 approvals on average over recent years.
How does the Hay SA2's development activity compare to the broader region?
The Hay SA2 has seen 0.16 approvals per 100 people in recent years, compared to 0.58 approvals in the broader region. This means that one dwelling has been approved for every 484 people in the Hay SA2, compared to one for every 192 in the broader region.
Is the Hay SA2 keeping up with housing demand?
Population forecasts suggest stable or declining population, reducing pressure on housing supply in the the Hay SA2 area.
What has been the trend in development approvals over the past five years in the Hay SA2?
Looking at development activity over the past five years, the Hay SA2's approval levels have been significantly above the yearly average of 4, indicating strong recent growth in development activity.
How does recent development compare to population growth in the Hay SA2?
Over the past five years, the Hay SA2 has seen 23 residential approvals while population has remained stable or declined, indicating potential market oversupply.
Are there opportunities for residential developers in the Hay SA2?
With dwelling approval activity running at an average of 4 approvals per year and a population of 2,926, stable population forecasts suggest a mature market with selective development opportunities.
Approvals Pipeline Development applications near Hay

Development applications around Hay

Development approvals is a new addition to AreaSearch. We’re actively expanding council coverage and refining the dataset — details and statuses for some councils may be partial. Check back regularly for the latest pipeline.
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SOURCE: Planning portals and council registers, compiled by AreaSearch. Distance & bearing measured from the suburb midpoint.

Project PipelineInfrastructure & Major Projects in Hay

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AreaSearch tracks 7 current infrastructure and development projects inside Hay, worth an estimated $1.4 billion. A further 123 sit in the immediately surrounding suburbs, taking the tracked pipeline within reach of the area to $71.5 billion. 29 are already under construction and 45 are due for completion within three years. The pipeline spans energy, transport & logistics and residential development. Records are compiled from Infrastructure Australia, state agencies, council planning portals and public announcements, reviewed and updated daily, then ranked by proximity, construction stage, completion horizon and project scale.

Detail

Local performance is strongly affected by updates to regional infrastructure, key projects, and planning changes. AreaSearch has tracked 16 projects likely to influence the local area. Principal developments include the Hay Structure Plan, the John Houston Memorial Pool Upgrade, the Hay Health Services Redevelopment, and the Bishops Lodge Affordable Housing Development, with key details provided below.

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Frequently Asked Questions - Infrastructure

What are some of the major infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the Hay SA2?
Key infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the Hay SA2 include: Hay Structure Plan (Approved); John Houston Memorial Pool Upgrade (Construction); Hay Health Services Redevelopment (Completed); Bishops Lodge Affordable Housing Development (Planning); and The Plains Renewable Energy Park (Proposed). These projects represent significant developments that will shape the area's future infrastructure landscape.
What types of infrastructure projects are impacting the Hay SA2?
Infrastructure development impacting the Hay SA2 spans multiple sectors including Energy, Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal, and Sports & Recreation, among others.
What is the scale of infrastructure investment impacting the Hay SA2?
While specific investment values are not publicly disclosed for all projects impacting the Hay SA2, the area shows active development across multiple infrastructure categories within the broader region.
How does the Hay SA2's infrastructure development compare to other areas?
Infrastructure development activity impacting the Hay SA2 currently ranks below national averages at the 34thth percentile.
Hay Structure Plan
Category: Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal
Stage: Approved | Est. Comp: 0

Council-adopted strategic land use framework guiding the future growth of Hay over a 20-year horizon. The plan identifies residential, rural residential and industrial growth areas, infrastructure sequencing, and planning actions to implement the Hay Local Strategic Planning Statement. It continues to inform subsequent housing facilitation and rezoning initiatives.

Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal

John Houston Memorial Pool Upgrade
Category: Sports & Recreation
Stage: Construction | Est. Comp: 0
Source / Links: Link 1   

$4.19 million funding for the upgrade of the John Houston Memorial Pool in Hay, part of the Australian Government's Growing Regions Program to build or upgrade social infrastructure.

Sports & Recreation

Bishops Lodge Affordable Housing Development
Category: Communities
Stage: Planning | Est. Comp: 0
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

Hay Shire Council and Argyle Housing are progressing a proposal to develop affordable housing on Council-owned subdivision lots at Bishop's Lodge in Hay, targeting essential workers such as police, health, teaching, aged care and childcare staff, plus two four-bedroom dwellings for Council. Subdivision works were completed in 2024 at a cost of approximately $405,000. Argyle Housing, the local Community Housing Provider, is exploring funding through the Housing Australia Future Fund or another program such as the National Housing Accord, with the 2025 Argyle Housing Annual Report confirming the project remains active and funding avenues are still being pursued.If Argyle Housing cannot secure funding within four years of the agreement, the land reverts to Council.

Communities

Hay Health Services Redevelopment
Category: Health & Medical
Stage: Completed | Est. Comp: 0
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

Redevelopment of Hay Health Service, including a new four-bed residential aged care wing, internal refurbishments, new triage area, security improvements, and three new onsite staff accommodation units.

Health & Medical

The Plains Renewable Energy Park
Category: Energy
Stage: Proposed | Est. Comp: 0
Source / Links: Link 1   

The Plains Renewable Energy Park in NSW's South-West Renewable Energy Zone, developed by ENGIE, including a 400MW solar farm, 400MW/1.6GWh BESS, and a 1,350MW wind farm with infrastructure and support facilities.

Energy

West Nyangay Solar Farm
Category: Energy
Stage: Under Assessment | Est. Comp: 0
Source / Links: Link 1   

The West Nyangay Solar Farm in Booroorban, NSW, includes an 800 MW solar farm, 500 MW/2,000 MWh battery storage, a 330/33-kilovolt substation, and ancillary infrastructure.

Energy

Saltbush Wind Farm
Category: Energy
Stage: Planning | Est. Comp: 0
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

Proposed 400 MW onshore wind farm in the South West Renewable Energy Zone near Booroorban, NSW. The project comprises up to 68 wind turbines with a tip height of up to 280 m, a co-located solar farm, and a battery energy storage system (BESS) of up to 600 MW / 1,200 MWh. Additional infrastructure includes a substation, access tracks, and underground and overhead cabling. Currently at the Prepare EIS stage under State Significant Development application SSD-70636459.Once operational, the project is expected to power approximately 173,000 Australian households.

Energy

Pottinger Energy Park
Category: Energy
Stage: Approved | Est. Comp: 2029
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

Pottinger Energy Park is an approved large-scale renewable energy project in the NSW South West Renewable Energy Zone, jointly developed by Someva Renewables and AGL Energy. The NSW Independent Planning Commission approved the development in August 2025 for up to 1,300 MW of generation from approximately 247 wind turbines, supported by a battery of up to 500 MW / 2,000 MWh. Federal EPBC approval was granted in September 2025. Under the Access Right issued by EnergyCo in April 2025, the first phase of construction will deliver around 831 MW of wind generation (about 115 turbines) supported by a 400 MW / 1,600 MWh battery connected to the Project EnergyConnect transmission network.In March 2026 the project was endorsed by the NSW Investment Delivery Authority as one of 16 high-value projects across the state. A Community Consultative Committee is being established and a Community Benefits Program with Hay Shire Council and Edward River Council will deliver at least 26 million dollars in direct community support over 30 years. Construction on the initial phase is anticipated to commence in late 2026 pending a final investment decision targeted for 2026, with operations expected to begin in 2028-29. At full capacity the project could power the equivalent annual needs of approximately 830,000 NSW households and create up to 900 construction jobs and 55 ongoing operational roles.

Energy

Jobs & IndustryEmployment Trends in Hay

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1,583 residents of Hay are employed, from a labour force of 1,659. Unemployment sits at 4.6%, with participation at 67.1%. Weighted for its industry mix, the area's sectors are forecast to grow about 5.0% nationally over five years. That reflects industry composition only and makes no allowance for local population growth. Unemployment and labour force come from ABS Small Area Labour Markets, updated quarterly; the industry and occupation profile is from the 2021 Census.

Detail

The local workforce in Hay is balanced between white and blue collar jobs across varied sectors, with an unemployment rate of 4.6%. As of March 2026, there are 1,583 employed residents, representing an unemployment rate 0.5% higher than the Regional NSW average of 4.1%, while workforce participation is notably high (67.1% relative to 60.6% in Regional NSW). According to Census data, only 11.8% of employed residents worked from home, though this may have been influenced by Covid-19 lockdowns. The primary employment sectors for local residents are agriculture, forestry & fishing, retail trade, and construction.

The region exhibits a strong specialization in agriculture, forestry & fishing, representing an employment share 4.7 times greater than the regional average. In contrast, health care & social assistance has a minor presence at 7.9% of employment versus 16.9% regionally. Although local jobs exist, a significant portion of residents travel outside the area for employment, based on the ratio of Census workers to the local population. Based on AreaSearch analysis of SALM and ABS statistics, during the 12 months leading to March 2026, the local labour force contracted by 4.3% and total employment fell by 5.0%, leading to a 0.7 percentage point increase in the unemployment rate. Over the same period, Regional NSW saw employment fall by 0.9%, the labour force shrink by 0.4%, and unemployment increase by 0.5 percentage points. National employment forecasts from Jobs and Skills Australia as of May-25 provide additional context regarding future demand trends in Hay. These five and ten-year projections have been aligned with the local industry profile to estimate future employment trends. Globally, national employment is projected to grow by 6.6% over five years and 13.7% over ten years, though individual sector growth rates vary. Projecting these trends onto Hay's current employment structure indicates local jobs could grow by 5.0% over five years and 11.0% over ten years (note that this is a basic weighted projection for illustration and does not incorporate local population forecasts).

Frequently Asked Questions - Employment

What is the employment situation in the Hay SA2?
As of March 2026, the Hay SA2 has approximately 1,583 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 4.6%. This healthy unemployment rate suggests a well-functioning labour market. The area faces employment challenges compared to other regions nationally.
How does the Hay SA2's unemployment rate compare to the broader region?
As of March 2026, the unemployment rate in the Hay SA2 stands at 4.6%, which is broadly in line with Regional NSW's rate of 4.1%. For comparison, the national unemployment rate is 4.2%.
What are the major employment sectors in the Hay SA2?
The employment landscape in the Hay SA2 is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are agriculture, forestry & fishing (24.7% of employment), retail trade (10.8%), and construction (10.0%). Other significant employers include education & training and public administration & safety.
How has employment changed recently in the Hay SA2?
Over the past year to March 2026, the Hay SA2 has experienced a decline in employment, with total jobs decreasing while the labour force decreased. As a result, the unemployment rate has rise. By comparison, Regional NSW saw employment decreased and its unemployment rate rose.
What is the workforce participation rate in the Hay SA2?
The workforce participation rate in the Hay SA2 is 67.1%, which represents the proportion of working-age residents who are either employed or actively seeking work. This healthy participation rate reflects good employment opportunities and workforce engagement. The local rate leading the Regional NSW average of 60.6%, indicating stronger workforce attachment in the local area.
Which industries are over-represented in the Hay SA2's employment market?
The hay sa2 shows notable specialization in agriculture, forestry & fishing, which employs 24.7% of the local workforce compared to 5.3% regionally. With a local vs regional employment ratio of 4.7, this represents a significant industry cluster that likely serves markets beyond the local area.
What are the employment growth prospects for the Hay SA2?
Based on Jobs and Skills Australia projections applied to the Hay SA2's industry mix, employment is expected to grow by 5.0% over the next five years and 11.0% over ten years. This compares to national growth expectations of 6.6% over five years. Steady growth is anticipated across multiple sectors, providing diverse employment opportunities.
How does the job market in the Hay SA2 compare nationally?
The hay sa2's employment market shows weaker performance compared to most areas nationally. This suggests the need for targeted economic development initiatives. Recent job advertisement trends show the broader employment region saw a 1.0% decline, ranking 19.0th out of 37 regions nationally.
What employment opportunities exist for skilled workers in the Hay SA2?
Skilled workers will find selective opportunities in the Hay SA2, with knowledge-based sectors representing 20.8% of local jobs. Key sectors for skilled workers include education & training (9.7%), health care & social assistance (7.9%), and professional & technical (2.1%). With projected employment growth of 5.0% over five years, demand for skilled workers is expected to remain strong.

EarningsHousehold Income in Hay

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Median household income in Hay is $1,236 a week (about $64,000 a year), with median personal income at $701 a week. ATO records put median taxable income at $50,789 a year against an average of $62,437. Household income is from the 2021 Census; taxable income is from ATO Taxation Statistics for the latest financial year available, indexed forward using the ABS Wage Price Index.

Detail

According to the latest postcode-level ATO data released by AreaSearch for the 2023 financial year, the median income of taxpayers in the Hay SA2 is $50,789, with a mean income of $62,437. This sits below the national average, and compares to a median of $52,390 and a mean of $65,215 across Regional NSW. Adjusting for a Wage Price Index increase of 10.32% since the 2023 financial year, current estimates would be roughly $56,030 (median) and $68,880 (average) as of March 2026. 2021 Census data shows that household, family, and individual incomes in Hay fall between the 15th and 28th percentiles nationally.

Income distribution shows that the $1,500 - 2,999 weekly bracket includes 29.6% of the community (866 individuals), matching trends in Regional NSW where 29.9% are in this bracket. While housing expenses are low with residents keeping 91.9% of their income, total disposable income sits in the 24th percentile nationally.

Frequently Asked Questions - Income

What is the median taxable income in the Hay SA2?
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to March 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Hay SA2 is approximately $56,030. The official ATO data from FY-23 recorded a median of $50,789.
What is the average taxable income in the Hay SA2?
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to March 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Hay SA2 is approximately $68,880. The official ATO data from FY-23 recorded an average of $62,437.
How does the median taxable income in the Hay SA2 compare to the region?
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to March 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Hay SA2 is approximately $56,030 compared to $57,797 in Regional NSW. The official ATO data from FY-23 shows $50,789 and $52,390 respectively.
How does the average taxable income in the Hay SA2 compare to the region?
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to March 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Hay SA2 is approximately $68,880 compared to $71,945 in Regional NSW. The official ATO data from FY-23 shows $62,437 and $65,215 respectively.
What are the main income cohorts in the Hay SA2 according to the 2021 Census?
As per the 2021 Census, the income bracket containing the largest proportion (~29.6% / 866 persons) of the Hay SA2's population is the $1,500 - 2,999 cohort.
How do the main income cohorts in the Hay SA2 compare to the region?
The largest income cohort in the Hay SA2 is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing about 29.6% of the population. In comparison, Regional NSW's largest income cohort is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing 29.9% of its population, according to the 2021 Census.
What is the median household income in the Hay SA2 according to the 2021 Census?
The 2021 Census data indicates that the median household income in the Hay SA2 is $1,236/wk.
What is the median family income in the Hay SA2 according to the 2021 Census?
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the Hay SA2 is $1,625/wk.
What is the median personal income in the Hay SA2 according to the 2021 Census?
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the Hay SA2 is $701/wk.
How does the Hay SA2's income rank nationally?
The Hay SA2 shows a median taxpayer income of $50,789 and an average of $62,437 according to the latest postcode level ATO data aggregated by AreaSearch for FY-23. This is lower than average on a national basis, contrasting with Regional NSW's median income of $52,390 and average income of $65,215. Based on Wage Price Index growth of 10.32% since FY-23, current estimates would be approximately $56,030 (median) and $68,880 (average) as of March 2026.
What is the disposable income in the Hay SA2?
The estimated disposable income in the Hay SA2 is $4,924 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
How does the Hay SA2's disposable income compare to the region?
The hay sa2's disposable income is $4,924 compared to $5,252 for Regional NSW, based on AreaSearch analysis.

Housing StockHousing & Dwellings in Hay

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Hay had 1,136 occupied dwellings at the 2021 Census, 92% detached houses and 1% apartments. 24% are owned with a mortgage, 29% rented and 47% owned outright. At that Census the median rent was $175 a week and the median mortgage repayment $894 a month. Rent absorbs 14.2% of household income here and mortgage repayments 16.7%. Dwelling stock, tenure and housing costs are 2021 Census measures — the only source that counts dwellings at this boundary size.

Detail

Dwelling options in Hay at the time of the latest Census consisted of 91.6% standalone houses and 8.5% alternative dwellings (including semi-detached properties, apartments, and other housing types), compared to 82.6% houses and 17.4% alternative dwellings in Regional NSW. Home ownership in Hay was higher than the regional average at 47.3%, while the remaining homes were mortgaged (23.9%) or occupied by renters (28.8%). The median monthly mortgage payment in the area was significantly lower than the Regional NSW average at $894, and the median weekly rent was $175, compared to regional averages of $1,733 and $330 respectively.

Nationally, Hay's monthly mortgage payments are much lower than the Australian median of $1,863, and weekly rents are well below the national median of $375.

Frequently Asked Questions - Housing

What percentage of homes are owned vs rented in the Hay SA2?
In the Hay SA2, 47.3% of homes are owned outright, 23.9% are owned with a mortgage, and 28.8% are rented.
What percentage of dwellings in the Hay SA2 are houses?
According to the latest data, 91.6% of dwellings in the Hay SA2 are houses.
What percentage of dwellings in the Hay SA2 are apartments or units?
In the Hay SA2, 1.1% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 7.1% being semi-detached dwellings.
What is the level of outright home ownership in the Hay SA2?
Outright home ownership in the Hay SA2 stands at 47.3%, compared to 39.6% in Regional NSW.
What is the median monthly mortgage repayment in the Hay SA2?
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the Hay SA2 is $894, compared to $1,733 in Regional NSW.
What is the median weekly rent in the Hay SA2?
The median weekly rent in the Hay SA2 is $175, compared to $330 in Regional NSW.
What is the distribution of rental prices in the Hay SA2?
In the Hay SA2, 28.4% of rentals are $0-149/week, 70.2% are $150-349/week, 1.4% are $350-649/week, 0.0% are $650-949/week, and 0.0% are $950+/week.
What is the average monthly housing cost in the Hay SA2?
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the Hay SA2 is $432, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
What percentage of income do residents spend on housing in the Hay SA2?
In the Hay SA2, households with mortgages typically spend 16.7% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 14.2% of their income on rent.
How crowded are homes in the Hay SA2?
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the Hay SA2 is 0.7, indicating the level of household density.
How does housing affordability in the Hay SA2 compare to the region?
Housing affordability in the Hay SA2 shows mortgage holders spending 16.7% of income on repayments (vs 27.9% regionally), while renters spend 14.2% of income on rent (vs 23.0% regionally).
What types of dwellings are most common in the Hay SA2?
The dwelling mix in the Hay SA2 consists of 91.6% detached houses, 7.1% semi-detached dwellings, 1.1% apartments, and 0.3% other dwelling types.
What is the weighted average housing cost based on tenure mix in the Hay SA2?
Considering the housing occupancy patterns, the weighted average monthly housing cost is approximately $432. This accounts for outright owners paying no housing costs, mortgage holders paying $894/month, and renters paying $758/month.
How affordable is housing in the Hay SA2 relative to local incomes?
Housing in Hay consumes approximately 8.1% of median household income ($5,352 monthly), indicating costs are highly affordable. The generally accepted benchmark is that housing should not exceed 30% of household income.
How do proposed developments compare to existing housing types in the Hay SA2?
Recent development applications in Hay show attached dwellings contributing 0% of approvals compared to 8% of existing stock, while detached houses represent 100% of applications versus 92% of current dwellings. This suggests development patterns consistent with existing housing mix. The area shows minimal growth in housing density compared to other Australian locations.

HouseholdsHousehold Composition in Hay

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Hay counted 1,136 households at the 2021 Census, averaging 2.2 people each. 22% are couples with children, fewer than in 80% of areas nationally, against 31% couples without children. 34% of households are people living alone, and families average 2.1 children. Household and family composition is measured only by the Census, so these are 2021 figures.

Detail

Families make up the majority of households at 64.7%, consisting of 22.1% couples with children, 30.6% couples without children, and 10.5% single parents. Non-family households account for 35.3%, with single-person households representing 33.7% and group households making up 2.2%. The median household occupancy is 2.2 people, which is below the Regional NSW average of 2.4.

Frequently Asked Questions - Households

How many households are in the Hay SA2?
As of the 2021 Census, the Hay SA2 had 1,136 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has remained relatively stable to an estimated 1,147 households today.
What is the typical household size?
The median household size in the Hay SA2 is 2.2 people. This compares to 2.4 in Regional NSW and reflects the area's household composition mix.
What types of households are most common?
Family households dominate at 64.7% of all households. The remaining households consist of lone person households (33.7%), group households (2.2%), and other household types (0.0%).
How are families structured in the area?
Among the 734 family households, 22.1% are couples with children, 30.6% are couples without children at home, and 10.5% are single parent families. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
How does the Hay SA2 compare to regional household patterns?
Compared to Regional NSW, the Hay SA2 shows distinct household patterns. Lone person households are notably over-represented at 33.7% (versus 27.9% regionally). This higher proportion of single-person households drives demand for smaller dwellings and different community services.
What is the average family size?
Families in the Hay SA2 have an average of 2.1 children, slightly above the Regional NSW average of 1.8. This influences local demand for child-related services and larger family homes.
What are the marriage patterns in the Hay SA2?
Marriage patterns reveal 47.5% of the adult population are currently married, while 34.1% have never married. This compares to 45.6% married and 34.3% never married across Regional NSW.
How significant are single-person households?
Single-person households represent 33.7% of all households in the Hay SA2, higher than the regional average of 27.9%. This affects demand for smaller dwellings and single-person accommodation.
Are shared living arrangements common?
Group households (unrelated people sharing) account for 2.2% of households, well below the Regional NSW average of 3.3%. This low rate suggests limited student or young professional shared accommodation.
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EducationSchools & Education in Hay

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12.0% of adults in Hay hold a university qualification, including 9.0% with a bachelor degree and 1.3% with postgraduate qualifications, lower than 85% of areas nationally. A further 29.5% hold a vocational qualification. 4 schools serve the area, with 385 enrolment places and an average ICSEA of 948 against a national benchmark of 1,000. Qualifications come from the 2021 Census; school enrolments, ICSEA and results come from ACARA's current release.

Detail

The region presents educational challenges, with university attainment rates (12.0%) falling significantly below the NSW state average of 32.2%. This dynamic presents opportunities for targeted education initiatives. Bachelor degrees represent 9.0% of qualifications, followed by graduate diplomas at 1.7% and postgraduate degrees at 1.3%. Vocational training is prominent, with 38.9% of residents aged 15+ holding trade credentials, consisting of advanced diplomas (9.4%) and certificates (29.5%). Participation in education is quite strong, with 28.6% of the population enrolled in study. This consists of 11.8% in primary schools, 7.9% in secondary schools, and 1.6% in higher education institutions.

Frequently Asked Questions - Education

What percentage of people in the Hay SA2 have university qualifications?
12.0% of people aged 15 and over in the Hay SA2 have university qualifications, compared to 21.3% in the broader region.
What percentage of people in the Hay SA2 have no formal qualifications?
49.2% of people aged 15 and over in the Hay SA2 have no formal qualifications, compared to 39.1% regionally.
How does the Hay SA2's education level compare to national averages?
The hay sa2 ranks in the 15th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
What types of qualifications are most common in the Hay SA2?
The most common qualifications in the Hay SA2 are: Certificate (29.5%), Advanced Diploma (9.4%), Bachelor Degree (9.0%).
What proportion of the Hay SA2's population is currently attending educational institutions?
28.6% of the population in the Hay SA2 is currently engaged in formal education, with 11.8% in primary school, 7.9% in secondary school, 1.6% at university.
What is the ICSEA score for schools in the Hay SA2?
The average ICSEA (Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage) score for schools in the Hay SA2 is 948, indicating below-average socio-educational advantage compared to the national average of 1000.
How many schools are located within the Hay SA2?
There are 4 schools within the Hay SA2, with a combined enrollment of approximately 385 students.
What types of schools are available in the Hay SA2?
The hay sa2 includes 3 primary schools, 1 secondary school.

Schools Detail

AmenitiesServices & Amenities in Hay

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Getting AroundTransport & Commuting in Hay

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Getting around Hay means driving: households keep an average of 1.5 vehicles, and scheduled services reach only a handful of stops. Service data is built from operators' published GTFS timetables; vehicle ownership is from the 2021 Census.

Detail

Analysis of public transit reveals 17 active transport stops in Hay, including train and bus options. These locations are served by 8 routes, providing 74 weekly passenger trips. Transit accessibility is low, with residents situated an average of 1749 meters from the closest stop. As a residential community, most workers commute out of the area; private vehicles are the primary mode of travel at 86%, while 11% of residents walk to work. Vehicle ownership averages 1.5 per dwelling. A low 11.8% of residents work from home (based on the 2021 Census, which may reflect pandemic conditions).

Service frequency averages 10 trips per day across all local routes, which translates to approximately 4 weekly trips for each stop.

Frequently Asked Questions - Transport

How many public transport stops are in Hay?
There are 17 public transport stops within the Hay SA2.
How frequent are the transport services in Hay?
the Hay SA2 has 74 weekly trips across 8 routes, averaging 10 trips per day.
How far are residents from public transport in Hay?
On average, residential properties are 1749 meters from the nearest transport stop.

Transport Stops Detail

HealthcareHealth Services in Hay

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61.3% of residents in Hay report no long-term health condition, a less healthy profile than 84% of areas nationally. 6.2% need daily assistance with core activities, and 50.4% hold private health cover. The standardised death rate runs at 7.4 per 1,000 residents. Health conditions, assistance needs and insurance are 2021 Census measures; the death rate comes from current ABS releases.

Detail

Health indicators point to significant challenges in Hay, according to AreaSearch's evaluation of mortality data and the prevalence of chronic illnesses among both young and old cohorts, while private health insurance coverage is low at roughly 50% of the population (~1,474 people) compared to the national average of 55.7%. Asthma and arthritis are the most common medical diagnoses in the region, affecting 10.3% and 9.8% of residents. Meanwhile, 61.3% of individuals reported no chronic medical conditions, compared to 63.3% across Regional NSW. The working-age cohort faces notable health difficulties with elevated chronic disease rates.

Residents aged 65 and older make up 27.1% of the population (792 people), compared to 23.4% in Regional NSW, with national disease rankings exceeding the general population.

Frequently Asked Questions - Health

How many people in the Hay SA2 have private health insurance?
Around 50.4% of people in the Hay SA2 are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 51.9% in the broader region of Regional NSW.
What percentage of the population requires ongoing medical assistance in the Hay SA2?
In the Hay SA2, 6.2% of the population is identified as requiring ongoing medical assistance. This figure is slightly different from the regional average, where 6.8% of people in Regional NSW require similar assistance.
How prevalent is asthma in the Hay SA2?
10.3% of people in the Hay SA2 are diagnosed with asthma. In comparison, 8.4% of the population across Regional NSW is affected by asthma.
What percentage of people have diabetes in the Hay SA2?
Diabetes affects 5.9% of the the Hay SA2 population, while in the surrounding region, 4.7% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
What is the percentage of people with heart disease in the Hay SA2?
4.9% of people in the Hay SA2 have heart disease. Across the region of Regional NSW, 4.4% of the population is affected by heart disease.
How does the Hay SA2 compare to the region in terms of overall private health coverage?
In the Hay SA2, 50.4% of the population are estimated to have private health insurance. Comparatively, Regional NSW sees an estimated private health coverage rate of 51.9%.

Ancestry & LanguageCultural Diversity in Hay

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Hay is largely Australian-born, at 92.2% of residents, with 4.6% speaking a language other than English at home. The largest reported ancestries are Australian (33.9%) and English (32.8%). 6.3% of residents identify as Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander. Ancestry, language and country of birth are counted only by the Census, so these are 2021 figures.

Detail

Hay exhibits lower levels of cultural diversity, with citizens making up 84.7% of the population, 92.2% of residents born in Australia, and 95.4% speaking only English at home. Christianity is the primary religious affiliation, representing 69.7% of the population, compared to 55.9% in Regional NSW. Looking at ancestral backgrounds, the three most common ancestries in Hay are Australian at 33.9%, English at 32.8%, and Irish at 8.2%. Specific ethnic groups show variation from regional averages: Australian Aboriginal residents represent 6.3% of the population (vs 4.6% regionally), Maori represent 0.5% (vs 0.3%), and Scottish represent 7.7% (vs 8.0%).

Frequently Asked Questions - Diversity

What is the level of cultural diversity in the Hay SA2?
Hay was found to be below average in terms of cultural diversity, with 84.7% of its population being citizens, 92.2% born in Australia, and 95.4% speaking English only at home.
What is the most common religion in the Hay SA2?
The main religion in Hay was found to be Christianity, which makes up 69.7% of people in Hay. This compares to 55.9% across Regional NSW.
What are the top countries of origin in the Hay SA2?
In terms of ancestry (country of birth of parents), the top three represented groups in Hay are Australian, comprising 33.9% of the population, English, comprising 32.8% of the population, and Irish, comprising 8.2% of the population. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: Australian Aboriginal is notably overrepresented at 6.3% of Hay (vs 4.6% regionally), Maori at 0.5% (vs 0.3%) and Scottish at 7.7% (vs 8.0%).
How does the percentage of people born overseas compare to the regional average?
7.8% of the the Hay SA2 population was born overseas, compared to 13.0% regionally.
What percentage of the the Hay SA2 population speaks a language other than English at home?
4.6% of the population in the Hay SA2 speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 7.1% in the wider region.
How many people in the Hay SA2 identify as Australian Aboriginal?
6.3% of the the Hay SA2 population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 4.6% in the region.
What is the citizenship status of the population in the Hay SA2?
84.7% of the the Hay SA2 population holds citizenship, compared to 89.2% in the wider region.

Age StructureAge Profile of Hay

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The median resident of Hay is 48, older than 86% of areas nationally. 22.6% of residents are aged 15 to 34. Age cohorts are not raw Census counts: the Census split is re-based to the latest ABS population estimates and state projections.

Detail

The median age in Hay is 48 years, which is older than the Regional NSW median of 43 and the Australian median of 38. The age distribution shows a high concentration of 55 - 64 year-olds (16.7%), while the 35 - 44 bracket is small (8.3%) compared to Regional NSW. The concentration of 55 - 64 year-olds is above the national average of 11.2%. Post-2021 Census data shows the 65 to 74 group grew from 11.5% to 14.2% of the population, and the 85+ cohort rose from 3.1% to 4.4%.

In contrast, the 45 to 54 cohort fell from 11.6% to 9.9% and the 55 to 64 group declined from 18.2% to 16.7%. Demographic models suggest Hay's age profile will change by 2041. The 75 to 84 bracket is projected to increase by 61 people (25%) from 247 to 309. Older residents (65+) are expected to account for 86% of population growth, highlighting aging trends, while both the 0 to 4 and 65 to 74 cohorts are projected to contract.

Frequently Asked Questions - Age

What is the median age in the Hay SA2?
According to the latest data, the median age in the Hay SA2 is 48 years.
How does the Hay SA2's median age compare to broader areas?
At 48 years, Hay is 5 years older than the Regional NSW average (43 years) and 10 years older than the national average (38 years).
What age groups are over-represented in the Hay SA2?
The most over-represented age group in the Hay SA2 compared to the Regional NSW region is the 55 - 64 group, making up 16.7% of the population.
What age groups are under-represented in the Hay SA2?
The most under-represented age group in the Hay SA2 compared to the Regional NSW region is the 35 - 44 group, making up 8.3% of the population.
Are there age groups with notable population variances?
Yes, certain age groups in the Hay SA2 show significant variance compared to the Regional NSW region. The most over-represented age group is 85+ year-olds (4.4% vs 2.9%).
What is the percentage of children (0-14 years) in the Hay SA2?
The percentage of children aged 0-14 years in the Hay SA2 is 15.5%.
What is the percentage of older people (65+ years) in the Hay SA2?
The percentage of people aged 65 and over in the Hay SA2 is 27.1%.

Data & MethodBoundaries, Sources & Method for Hay

Data currency Refreshed

9 of 14 data sections on this page were updated within the last 12 months — the newest current to Aug 2026.

Everything is aggregated to the SA2 boundary shown above, on a 2021 Census baseline. Only 3 sections — housing, households and cultural diversity — still wait on the 2026 Census.

The ledger — source, cycle and currency by section

Section Source & update cycle Currency
Updated within the last 12 months 9 sections
Population ABS, GNAF, Geoscience Australia Annual (ABS ERP) May 2026 3 months ago headline measures · 2021 Census baseline
Re-based to the ABS Estimated Resident Population (June 2025 release) and updated with new dwellings from GNAF address data. Current to May 2026, with the 2021 Census supplying the small-area baseline.
Age profile ABS, Geoscience Australia, State governments Annual May 2026 3 months ago headline measures · 2021 Census baseline
Age cohorts are re-based to the latest ABS population estimates and state projections, current to May 2026. Each cohort is held as a Census baseline and a current estimate.
Development & approvals ABS, GNAF Monthly (ABS approvals) Jun 2026 2 months ago headline measures · May 2026 baseline
Property sales & rents Valuer General, Rental Board, ABS Weekly sales, quarterly rents Aug 2026 this month all 21 measures
Sales from the state Valuer General register, refreshed weekly, and rents from quarterly rental bond lodgements. Both are read live each time this page loads, current to Aug 2026.
Infrastructure projects Infrastructure Australia, State agencies, Local governments Daily Aug 2026 this month all 7 projects tracked here
Project pipeline maintained continuously from Infrastructure Australia, state agencies, local government and public announcements. Records are added and revised daily; this area was last updated Aug 2026.
Employment ABS, DEWR, JSA Quarterly (ABS SALM) Mar 2026 5 months ago headline measures · 2021 Census baseline
Unemployment and labour force from ABS Small Area Labour Markets, current to Mar 2026. The growth outlook applies Department of Employment (now Jobs and Skills Australia) forecasts for all 19 industry divisions to the local industry mix, so it measures sector composition rather than local expansion and makes no allowance for population growth. Job demand comes from the same agency via its Internet Vacancy Index; industry and occupation structure from the 2021 Census.
Education ABS, ACARA Annual (ACARA) Aug 2026 this month headline measures · 2021 Census baseline
Transport ABS, State Transport Departments Each timetable release Jul 2026 last month headline measures · 2021 Census baseline
Services & amenities Provider directories, ACECQA Continuous Jul 2026 last month all 14 measures
Annual and financial-year sources 2 sections
Income ABS, ATO Annual (ATO) FY 2023 3 years ago headline measures · 2021 Census baseline
ATO taxable income statistics for FY 2023, indexed forward using the Wage Price Index. Census household income provides the distribution detail.
Health ABS, ATO Annual 2024 2 years ago headline measures · 2021 Census baseline
Census-measured — next update: 2026 Census 3 sections No more current small-area source exists for these, so they are labelled as Census-measured rather than implied to be current.
Housing ABS 5-yearly (Census) 2021 Census next update 2026 all 30 measures
Households ABS 5-yearly (Census) 2021 Census next update 2026 all 18 measures
Cultural diversity ABS, Geoscience Australia 5-yearly (Census) 2021 Census next update 2026 all 44 measures

"Currency" is the most recent release feeding that section. Where the Census supplies the structural baseline underneath a current headline figure, the row says so.

How the numbers are built

Population

The Census provides the small-area baseline, aggregated from mesh blocks to this boundary. It is then re-based to the ABS Estimated Resident Population (June 2025 release), and new dwellings built since Census night are counted from address data — 41 validated new addresses here. The headline figure is therefore a current estimate for May 2026, not a 2021 count (2,897 at the 2021 Census → 2,926 now). Annual growth rates are compound (CAGR), not simple averages.

Age profile

Cohort shares are not raw Census counts. Every cohort is held as a pair — the Census baseline and a current estimate — and the split is re-based using ERP and state population projections, current to May 2026. Median age is the Census median plus modelled change since. Charts that show both are labelled "2021 Census vs Current Estimate".

Property sales

Sourced from the state valuation authority's sales register — current, not Census, and refreshed weekly. Medians are calculated from settled transactions in the period shown; periods with very low transaction counts are flagged or suppressed, because a handful of sales can move a median substantially.

Rents

Derived from state rental bond lodgement data, by dwelling type and bedroom count. Bonds are lodged at the start of a new tenancy, so this reflects new lettings, not the whole rented stock.

Development & infrastructure

Building approvals come from current ABS releases; development applications are collected from council and state planning portals; the infrastructure pipeline is compiled from Infrastructure Australia and local government sources. Applications are matched to this boundary by address or coordinates, so very recent lodgements may not yet appear.

Employment & income

Industry and occupation structure comes from the Census, but the headline labour-market indicators do not. Unemployment and labour force are derived from ABS Small Area Labour Markets (quarterly). The employment outlook applies Department of Employment forecasts for all 19 industry divisions to this area's own industry mix (the agency is now Jobs and Skills Australia), as does the Internet Vacancy Index used for job demand. Because it is weighted on industry composition alone, that outlook carries no allowance for local population growth — in fast-growing areas the real rise in local jobs will typically be higher. Income combines Census household income with ATO taxable-income statistics for FY 2023, indexed forward using the Wage Price Index.

Education, transport & amenities

School enrolments, ICSEA and performance come from ACARA's current release, not the Census. Public transport stops and service frequency are derived from GTFS timetable feeds published by state transport departments. Services and amenities are proximity and count scores built from provider directories, refreshed on their own cycle. The Census contributes only the travel-to-work and qualification measures.

Rankings and benchmarks. Where we rank this area, the comparison set is every area of the same boundary type — suburbs against suburbs, SA2s against SA2s. Benchmarks compare this area against its greater capital city region and the national figure for the same measure and period.

Limits worth knowing. Small areas carry larger error margins, and the ABS introduces small random adjustments to Census counts to protect confidentiality — so totals may not sum exactly. Estimates re-based from regional data describe the area's expected trajectory, not a direct count of it. Figures are indicative for research and are not financial, planning or valuation advice.

Cross-check us. The Census baseline for this boundary is at ABS 2021 Census QuickStats (109021177). QuickStats reports 2021 only — the figures on this page are more current wherever the ledger shows a later date.

Common questions about this page

Why can the Hay SA2 boundary differ from the suburb boundary?
This page uses ABS Statistical Area Level 2 (SA2) boundaries for statistical reporting (e.g., census and ERP). SA2 areas can differ materially from Suburbs and Localities (SAL) boundaries, even when they share similar names, because they are defined for different purposes and often use different geographic boundaries.
Where does the data on this Hay page come from?
AreaSearch compiles this page from official and industry sources — including ABS, Geoscience Australia, Valuer General, Provider directories, DEWR, JSA, State Transport Departments and ACARA — then aggregates them to the boundary shown and calculates the rankings, growth rates and benchmarks itself. Property sales come from the state valuation authority, rents from state rental bond lodgements, development applications from council and state planning portals, school data from ACARA, and public transport from state transport departments.
Is the Hay data on this page just from the 2021 Census?
No. Most of this page is maintained well beyond the Census. Sourced entirely from current releases: development & approvals (Jun 2026), property sales & rents (Aug 2026), infrastructure projects (Aug 2026) and services & amenities (Jul 2026). Built on a Census baseline but carrying newer measures on top: population (to May 2026), age profile (to May 2026), employment (to Mar 2026), income (to FY 2023), education (to Aug 2026), transport (to Jul 2026) and health (to 2024). Population and age cohorts in particular are re-based to the latest ABS Estimated Resident Population rather than left at 2021 counts. Only housing, households and cultural diversity remain wholly Census-based, because no more current small-area dataset exists for those measures.

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